If you dream of designing, planning, managing, building or maintaining the structures where we live, work and play, then the Architecture and Construction Career Cluster is for you.

This career cluster is organized into three career pathways:

Construction

Design and Pre-Construction

Maintenance and Operations

Careers

Students in architecture and construction learn and practice skills that prepare them for diverse post-high school education and training opportunities, from apprenticeships and two-year college programs to four-year college and graduate programs.

CTE classes in this cluster will introduce you to a variety of interesting careers including:

Architectural and civil drafter or engineer

Environmental designer

Residential or commercial carpenter

Construction worker

Systems configuration manager

Electrical design engineer

Electrician

HVAC/HVACR technician

Building services technician

Painter

Sheet metal technician

Note: Each school and school district has different CTE options. Not every district has classes in every cluster, nor does every district offer CTE dual credit and Advanced Placement options.

Career and Technical Student Organizations

Career and technical student organizations are much more than clubs. They provide opportunities for hands-on learning, and for applying career, leadership and personal skills in real-world environments. Participants build their skills by developing projects, attending events, and competing regionally and nationally.

It is fact that young people who have at least one year of post-high school education earn thousands of dollars more a year. So, if you spend even one year at a two- or four-year college, in a certificate program at a technical school, or in an apprenticeship after you graduate from high school, you will very likely earn higher wages all your life. By furthering your education, you will be better-prepared to successfully navigate the world of work.

After taking CTE classes in architecture and construction, you could pursue any number of opportunities including:

Construction-related apprenticeships

Two-year college programs in construction management, architectural drafting and design

Associated General Contractors — The leading national construction trade association representing all facets of commercial construction for both public and private entities including building, highway and municipal projects